For those seeking to take up beekeeping - Although distance may be a problem, there is a man in Rugby who supplies bees and beekeeping equipment at a much lower cost that the major suppliers. His nucleus colonies are reared in Wales (I think) and have productive gentle queens - important for a calm colony. I have no connection with the business other than as a customer.
He has a collection day in April/May where everyone meets to collect new stocks - although it may be too late to order now.
Contact me on email for more info weyvalleyfalconry@tesco.net.